University names young Roscommon man as recipient of entrepreneurial scholarship

The University of Galway, in partnership with The Liffey Trust, has named a young Roscommon man as the recipient of the 2025 Séamus McDermott Entrepreneurial Scholarship.

Sean Allen, from Fourmilehouse, a first year General Science student, has been recognised nationally and internationally for his work in science and innovation, with a focus on sustainable solutions in agriculture.

With a strong entrepreneurial drive and collaborative mind-set, he has shown exceptional potential as an innovator, and the scholarship will support him as he continues to develop his entrepreneurial skills to work on innovative projects.

Established in 2022 through the generous support of The Liffey Trust, the scholarship recognises and supports outstanding entrepreneurial talent of undergraduate students.

Dr Natalie Walsh, Director of Entrepreneurial Development at the University of Galway said Sean “is a fantastic example of the innovation and initiative we strive to nurture at the University of Galway IdeasLab. Since joining us, he has continued to show exceptional drive and curiosity, with a clear passion for turning ideas into real impact. His entrepreneurial mindset and commitment to solving meaningful challenges make him a very deserving recipient of this award.”

Chairperson of the Liffey Trust Aidan Corless noted that Sean “embodies everything the Séamus McDermott Scholarship stands for - a commitment to innovation, social impact, and a drive to make meaningful change. Sean is making ordinary things, extraordinary. We are proud to support his next chapter and thank you to University of Galway for their mentoring and leadership.”

The Séamus McDermott Entrepreneurial Scholarship is supported by IdeasLab, the University’s student innovation hub, which empowers students to develop creative solutions to real-world challenges.

Valued at €9,000 over the course of the recipient’s studies, the scholarship stipend award celebrates students who demonstrate vision, leadership and a commitment to creating real-world impact through innovation.